Marcus Rashford could secure dream end to Man Utd saga despite transfer being agreed

Marcus Rashford is unlikely to return to Manchester United following his loan spell with Premier League rivals Aston Villa and his hopes of an exit could still just about be alive

Barcelona could still grant Marcus Rashford’s Manchester United exit wish despite an imminent deal for Nico Williams. The England star appears unlikely to return to Old Trafford this summer following his loan spell with Premier League rivals Aston Villa.

The Midlands side had a £40m option to buy him permanently but have chosen not to. Following his exit, Rashford has confirmed a number of preferences for his next club having turned down moves to Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

He is also not interested in moving to London, while most clubs would struggle to afford his £300k-per-week wage packet – limiting his choices even more. Barcelona were thought to be interested in Rashford but an imminent deal for Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, as well as their struggling finances, appeared to put a move on ice.

But according to the Mail, Williams’ arrival will not deter Barcelona from making a move for Rashford. His versatility is a big draw for the Catalan giants, while they are keen on securing his services on loan for the coming season.

Meanwhile, Rashford has already expressed his desire to move to Spain and play alongside Spain starlet Lamine Yamal. He said: “Yeah, sure. Everybody in the world wants to play with the best. So hopefully, we’ll see.”

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When asked about a switch to Barcelona, he cheekily replied: “We’ll see.” Rashford added: “Spain is nice, not too far from home. If I train here for a long time, it’s good, because my family can come and see me for a few days, it’s only a three-hour flight. The weather is nice here.”

Barcelona sporting director Deco has also spoken out on his side’s intent to add to their wide options ahead of the new season amid their interest in Williams and Rashford. Speaking last week, he said: “We need to strengthen in this position.

“As wingers, we only really have Lamine [Yamal] and Raphinha. From there, there are names coming out and it will come down to price and quality.

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“Nico was there last year but for me, at that time, Dani Olmo was the priority. Now. the same as with other players, Nico is showing a strong desire to come … And if the right conditions are met in his case, we’ll definitely try to complete the deal.

“There’s a process with any signing: speaking with agents, clubs, knowing the contractual situation … Nico’s case it clear because he has a release clause. We’ve met with his agent to see what he wants and we will see if it’s possible.”

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